Hey, I am 5'4 brunette and petite. I enjoy anime, asian culture, k pop, k drama, travelling, eating good food, sight seeing etc. My preference for men is east Asian, so it would be a plus if you're asian. Hmu with a selfie plz :)

If you're like me, you want an easy to read post with additional context if I want to learn more.
Me: 30, single, South Asian raised in TO, 5'4, plus sized
You: 29-38, single, progressive, South Asian raised outside of South Asia, > 5'5, bearded
I've settled into my career in tech, have the best sidekick dog I could wish for and am excited to continue personal development throughout my life.
I'm looking for someone passionate, ambitious and level-head. Ideally, you can meet regularly and want a long-term relationship.
I am a city girl but I enjoy balancing excitement and high-energy with content & relaxation. I love to travel - solo, with friends, weekend road trips, backpacking, slow travel - I love it all! I enjoy having a plan even if the plan is to be flexible.
My cultural roots are important to me; the food, the music, the people, the cringey bits, all of it. Ideally, you enjoy watching South Asian movies. (PS2? 👀)
Communication is really important to me and I find it critical for all phases of any relationship. While I don't have a preference for voice, I think how you communicate and speak can be attractive for the right person.
What I bring:
Other than the cutest dog, I will be your best friend and show/give you all the love you deserve. I have a feminine and compassionate spirit. I can be the person who supports you and the person you support. The best cheerleader in your court and a partner for all of the desires you want to share.
I want to add so much morale and value to your life that it becomes the best life you could ever dream of.
Some caveats:
I have commitments that require me to live in the GTA (or near the GTA) long-term.
I do not feel a sense of calling to have children of my own. I am open to adopting, fostering or having no children.
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Let's chat. :)

TL;DR: I've attracted crows, but I need to lure them to the backyard instead of the front.
I've been working on getting crow visitors for about 2 months now. I slowly started adding feeders and baths to my backyard so I can watch right out my home office window. You can see my backyard setup below. Shepherd's hook with a tube feeder and platform feeder, window mounted feeder, and 2 bird baths. There's also a giant catalpa tree to the right. I replace the bird bath water every 1-2 days and have been testing out different waste free seed/nut/fruit mixes. I started out with just peanuts in the shell, and I still put them in the platform feeder or on the ground sometimes.
As you can see, the yard is wide but not very deep, so I know they're probably cautious about such an enclosed ground area.
https://preview.redd.it/r6uw6b95605b1.jpg?width=2952&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=10e34c0cb7c3f592cbd32ab2dad6c165eac0c211
So I currently get several other birds (grackles, doves, blue jays, cardinals, finches, starlings, and more), squirrels, and rabbits. I enjoy those, but I want the crows.
I found the local crows a few weeks ago and have been walking by them every few days tossing peanuts as I go. On Monday, we heard them outside so I ran out into my front yard and saw them on top of a house nearby. I started tossing peanuts into the yard and then went inside. Shortly after he swooped down and started eating them. SCORE! He brought a few friends and we had 4 crows visit on Monday. They've actually visited every day this week, so I'm finally on their food route!
But there are a few problems... First off, as luck would have it, a bunny dropped a couple kits in a nest in our front flower garden on Monday. So she's been guarding our front yard and charging anything that gets near, including the crows.
Second problem... My new friends like to visit at around 6-6:30am. I get up for work around that time, so I don't mind it, I enjoy waking up to cawing outside before my alarm goes off. But the crows sit on the neighbor's house across the street when they caw. I don't want to upset the neighbors with my new friends. I'm really going to look like an asshole if they see me tossing peanuts to the crows that are waking them up every morning. They also sometimes sit on the houses behind me that can see into the backyard, but I haven't been able to get them to visit these feeders.
So, how do I lure my new friends into the backyard? I've tried leaving a trail of peanuts along the side of the house with the gate open leading into the back. I've also tried a couple of bowls of peanuts. The grackles and squirrels eat this up, the crows don't. I also tried lining the top of the fence with peanuts. I did that this morning while one of the crows was on top of the house behind me, but again the squirrels and grackles ate them all, the crows did not.
Sorry for the long post, but I'm very close to cementing the murder I've been seeking for the past couple of months and just need a little help.
EDIT: I realize that I should have included a picture of my new friends! Here they are on Tuesday, second day visiting. They don't immediately fly out of the yard if I go out front, so they aren't too scared of me. You can see mama bunny staring daggers at them from across the street because her babies are in those bricks right between them.
https://preview.redd.it/g79or60nf05b1.jpg?width=2986&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=81fd5bd84e9b7eeba3433fb882f97e2d179b1786

Single, been told I’m good looking (197/90 - if that’s important). I’m currently on a vacation at Valencia, visiting a friend. Architect by profession…like long walks, photography, art, IT, music (all kinds), anime and Asian culture/food in general (finished graduate school in Japan so I can speak Japanese, still wrestling with Chinese and Korean though) Just looking for someone to hangout with while I’m here. Let’s see how it goes, maybe it can lead to something more…

We are 28M/25F couple,
Looking for an AI close to beach which has like some party scene if we want to attend a day or two, Food Should be a Priority.
Also looking for something which has excursion nearby such as scuba( want to give it a try) cant get other excrusion on mind right now.
Its our first time going to mexico so the place should be safe

I'm Asian and have a State Job in New York. I have been working there for about a year and a half. There are not that many Asian people who work in the state. I have to work in the Assembly Chambers 6 months out of the year and the area has some security guards. In the beginning of the year, this black security guard asked me to show some ID and started asking me questions. He has seen me in the Chambers last year. This guard has been working there much longer than I have.
He starts flipping my state ID front to back constantly. He starts questioning me what department I work in and who my boss is. I gave them the information and he says I never heard of it. I jokingly ask him do you want to see my license. He looks at both and starts questioning my license to. I told them if there is something wrong I can bring in my birth certificate and black light tomorrow to confirm
After that incident he asks me 1-3 times what my name is and what department I work for when he sees me in there for a few days
There have been late nights at work recently and there is food in the assembly members lounge. The black security guard (BOSS) encourages me to grab food from the lounge all the time. This black security guard recently denied me from going into the lounge for the past 2 nights. I noticed that my white co-workers go in without any issues. If I go in there with my white co-workers together we all get kicked out. I talked to this black security guard 1 on 1 and he starts making excuses saying rules have changed and no email was sent out about it. I talked to my boss and the security guard (BOSS) about it. The black security guard past by me last night and seemed unhappy after I talked to a superior. He also stared at me when I walked into the lounge last night afterward. I know people have had other issues with this same guard too.
I was wondering if this sounds like a race issue. I just feel like the security guard probably doesn't like me. I was talking to one of my white coworkers about it and they said it kinda sounds like racism. I want to know people's thoughts. I never reported anything to HR before

Yesterday, I went out with someone I met on the Hinge app. We went to watch a movie together and ate afterwards. We are around the same age (I’m 22 and he’s 21) and we’re both college students entering our senior year.
The day of the movie he messaged good morning to me and we talked for a little bit. When I got to theatre I saw him and we both greeted each other. We made our way to the seats and he wanted to buy me something but I kept saying I was alright because the lines were super long and if we both went, no one would watch our stuff/potentially take our seats. So while sitting down, he asked me about my job and I explained. He said I was a sweetheart and also said I smelled good as well. I think we just watched the movie after this.
After the movie, he was super stunned (he really enjoyed it) and we talked about it for a bit as well as what I enjoyed about the movie. So I think atp, we were heading to a food court at a mall nearby.
Once we got to the food court, he saw something he wanted and I agreed to get it as well. He paid for the food we ordered and found a seat. Now, at this point there was some silence between us. I jokingly asked if it was still the movie and he nodded yes. After we sat down, I started eating but he didn’t like the food he ate. I felt bad and there wasn’t anything else around he wanted either. There was still a lot of silence even though I talked a little about where I go to school (which he asked me about) and the journey to where I am now. He said I was smart smart and then asked if I had any questions for him. The only question I asked was about his job and I said I was really impressed by him. Other questions didn’t come to my mind even though I was trying to think of some. We also talked about music tastes for a bit, which I blanked a little on, and then anime. He then wanted to go home and I agreed. He wanted to drop me at my bus stop I got lost a little so we just hugged goodbye.
After I got home, he texted me saying that he enjoyed our movie date and thanks with a thumbs up emoji. I responded by saying that I also enjoyed it and if he was still interested in going out with me and where this goes to let me know. He reacted with a thumbs up emoji.
Honestly, I feel like he’s not that interested in me because there was a lot of silence and his message after I got home. I can’t really pinpoint it but I felt like he was way more interested in the movie than talking to me. But then also feel like I could be reading him wrong.
What I can say is, whichever girl he really likes and wants to be serious with is very lucky.

Ahoy there! It's been pretty lonely lately, so I figured I'd put myself out there and try to make some new friends. I'm of SouthEast Asian descent born and raised in Southern California. Definitely more of an indoor person, but I'm making an effort to go outside more and explore new places. Also a bit cringe so don't say I didn't warn ya!
I'm a huge fan of anime, science fiction, fantasy, documentaries, procedural crime shows, and series like Futurama, The Simpsons, Love Death Robots, and The Twilight Zone. I also enjoy playing a bunch of PC games (open world survival, fps, rpgs, fighting games, ect), so hit me up if you want to game together! I'm open to trying anything that looks fun.
Currently trying to improve all areas of my life and trying out new hobbies, listening to new music, watching new things. Mostly trying to get outside my comfort zone and do things I normally wouldn't. Feel free to send a message if you're up for a friendly chat/voicechat but I'm going to ignore all "hey, sup" messages. Not asking for a lot of effort tbh, just tell me a little about yourself. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? What movies, foods, games, or songs are you really into? I look forward to getting to know ya!

On shows like these, where does all the extra food go? I assume the contestants and judges have a nice buffet dinner with all the food. But if there are leftovers, do they just give it to the crew or to a nearby shelter or something?

For context: I am based on the US, ride dressage and work with a trainer who has imported numerous horses, so I was pretty well prepped on what to expect. Nothing was bad or crazy about this experience, I just feel like this might help others out there.
Finding an agent: Most likely if you are working with an experienced trainer, they will have contact info for an agent in Europe. If not, always ask how the agent is compensated. Some go on % of the price you pay on the horse, but others go on a fixed cost model (fee + travel expenses like hotels, food, rental car). Personally, I prefer the fixed cost model, but to each their own. Make sure you are clear with the agent about your price range and know that they typically work in euros - so if your budget is in USD or your local currency, do yourself a favor and make the conversion ahead of time. Also remember that that conversion changes regularly and, when you're talking in 5-6 figure budgets, you will notice those differences. Also be clear about any deal breakers. If you are staying in one general area, you probably need 4 days or so. Give yourself more time than you think you need (explained in etiquette section)
Booking the trip: Chances are, if you want to be able to view video ahead of your trip, you will not get a long lead time between booking and going. Obviously flights can be cheaper if you book well ahead of time, but sellers can only hold horses for so long. Some are quite accommodating and will hold for a week or 2, but remember that this is an inherent cost on their end. Also, when it comes to hotels and such, trust that your agent knows the best places to stay. A good agent will know small, nearby places that are typically less expensive and closer to the barns.
Etiquette: Shopping in Europe is quite differently paced than shopping in the US. For example, when you arrive, they will typically sit you down and have some coffee, maybe tell you about the stables, etc. It's friendly, welcoming and shouldn't be rushed through - even if you are dead-set on seeing a lot of horses on your trip. Great barns want to know that their horses are going to the right homes. When it comes to trying the horse, however, the timing aspect is sort of reversed. The moment you know this is not the horse for you, even if you haven't gotten on, you can say that you would like to pass. They will be glad you haven't wasted their time and will not be annoyed (I tend to find that such a terse interaction in the US would be considered rude - that doesn't apply at these barns that are getting in people regularly from around the world). Just as an aside, the horses will always be fully braided and turned out as if they are headed to a show. I honestly think that that presentation (and the offering of a drink or coffee) are very inexpensive ways that US sellers could heighten their game. But I digress.
Vetting: At least in Germany, it is federal law that the seller provide a standard set of 18 x-rays at their expense. I think it's feet (not skyline view), hocks, and stifles. Any additional x-rays can be purchased at your cost and they are generally quite a bit cheaper than in the US (because vets are doing x-rays regularly). So, for example, I added back and neck and the clinic charged me 250 euro. I vetted 2 horses and the sellers actually paid for both clinical vettings because, by their explanation, I was the first to vet both horses and it was easier for them to pay for it and then own the vetting if I decided to pass so they could keep it on file. (Obviously I was given the reports first so it's not like I had to get the reports through the sellers and worry about tampering or whatever)
Price negotiations: Aside from a language barrier and having a guide through the country, this is where a good agent can be key. This is a lot like it is in the US (prices can change based on vet findings, etc), but having a native speaker is very helpful. Also be aware (if this matters to you) if the seller works on a "coupon system". Essentially, some really big sale barns will tell you "if you don't like the horse, you can exchange it for another of equal value in such and such length of time". I'm honestly not sure if I find this good or bad, it's just sort of how it works. These barns have so many horses, it becomes easier to basically give you "store credit" to buy a different horse than give back your money. Oh, because I forgot to mention: European laws protect the consumer far more than the US (which does basically nothing in the case of horses). You have 2 years to return a horse, even if the horse was properly represented and it just didn't work out.
Import: Depending on where you fly into, it's safe to say that you will need to allocate $7500-$12k to import. Geldings only require 2-3 days of quarantine (depending on the time it takes to get bloodwork done), so that is why they are the most popular for import. Mares have to stay in quarantine for 3 weeks (I think that's right? Feel free to correct me anyone who has experience with this). If you are importing a stallion, I believe they are also 3 weeks AND they are required to breed to 2 mares during that time (it's flushed, no foal) to ensure they don't have equine STD's. Obviously since this is quite a hassle, only certain quarantine barns will accept stallions and I'm sure the import cost is far beyond what I have estimated above. Also, a pallet of horses (yup, they call them pallets) has 3 stalls and they will not fly the horses if the pallet is not filled. (Yeah, no extra leg room situations)
Ok, this was pretty long, but I'm sure I've missed something. If anyone has questions, please ask! I hope this was interesting and/or helpful.

I (25f) moved out with my boyfriend, now husband, two years ago when I got a full time job. I enjoy the freedom so much and I finally feel like I can be myself.
I went from crying, missing mum so much, every time after I visited, to avoiding visits as much as possible. Now I visit her around twice a month only out of obligation.
Mum tried her best to raise me and we were close when we lived together. We always have enough food and warmth and she make sure I got my grades and qualifications, like learning piano, for a more promising future (Yes, I’m Asian). Well, never not enough but also not too much. My father was always not around because of work, he will expresses that he loves us with words but not much actions. It also feels like he is not present even he is physically here. It’s like he’s a robot, he say what he needs to say ‘I’m happy seeing you guys happy’ and then shuts off to either watching TV, listening to audiobooks out loud or playing games on phones.
After I moved out, I explored a lot about myself. I went to therapy because of my anxiety (which my mum also has but she is ignoring it) and found out a lot about my childhood traumas and the ways I was brought up. I don’t hold a grudge against my parents because I know they did what they thought was best to raise me.
When I am around them now, I don’t feel accepted as an adult. I feel like there’s still a lot of judgement around what I do and how I do things when I was just simply answering my parents questions on how is life lately. So I gave up on answering sincerely and just gave short answers when they ask about my life. My mum starts to peer into my life by asking staff at a beauty salon that we both go to about me. It feels weird to me. We also don’t have similar interests, so we usually just talk about the weather and news when we have dinner. I hate going to pointless social events (which I usually just won’t go) and I enjoy my time alone. Having dinner with parents just become one of those boring things now that I’m starting to go less. Oh and we have very different values, like on political issues, racism, world view, life goals… etc.
I’m also very occupied with my life, going to work, keeping my home clean, going to yoga class, play dnd and video games with friends. My weekends are very precious to me and I want to spend it the way I want.
The less I spend time with them the happier I am. Sometimes I imagine if they are sick in hospital, I still can’t find the motivation to care for them (My mum had a history of hypochondria, maybe that’s affecting how I feel about them being sick). It sounds really heartless not wanting to take care of your parents and not being grateful and giving back.
Am I weird? How do you genuinely care for your parents? Do you think of the happy moments you had together? When people whine about how annoying their parents are how do they see it through?

Hi there ! Current goal is to make connections I can talk to consistently as I have a decent amount of time outside of working from home for an environmental organization. I'm mixed asian, love animals and have tattoos of animals as well as a dog.
My current interest is diablo 4 as seen in the title and the other main game I play is league. I do like to read manga more than watch anime but happy to watch and I do like to try new foods with my friends ! Currently learning as much as I can about long term investing so that would be interesting to talk about.
Overall I'm happy to make connections long term and short term and am open to any type of connection. Happy to trade pictures if you're comfortable and hop on a voice call too ! Generally looking for people up to 30 with some kind of similarity but happy to learn something new .

A bold golden grape with Italian routes, but a German name. One of the hardest to spell, but one of the easiest to pick in blind tasting!
Despite the overly German name, Gewurztraminer actually originates from Italy, albeit a German-speaking city called Tramin in the north of Italy! Gewurztraminer literally translates to “spicy [grape] of Tramin”. Gewurztraminer is an aromatic white grape most famous examples of it come from Alsace (France), but high quality wines are made from this grape throughout the world.
Gewurztraminer is both early budding and early ripening. As such, it is best suited to cooler climates that allow the grape to ripen slowly. A longer time ripening is better for aroma development: in warm climates they might ripen too fast, and not be able to develop the characteristic aromas. The variety easily accumulates sugar and has distinctive pink skins, which can give the wines a golden colour. Growing Gewurztraminer can be very laborious though as it is prone to many diseases and pests. A result of this has been research into the production of resistant clones in Alsace.
The name is one of the more difficult grapes to spell, but spelling the name is definitely the most difficult part of blind tasting these wines. Gewurztraminer is golden in colour and the aromas of lychee, rose, spice and peach will jump out of the glass. On the nose, the lychee and rose will lead you immediately to the answer. The alcohol is high for a white wine, as is the body. Acidity is low. Finally, it is not unusual for these wines to have some residual sugar (off-dry), but they can be made in all styles from dry to sweet.
Because these wines pack a punch, they are rarely consumed daily. It is often suggested that Gewurztraminer accompanies spicy asian food nicely: the sweetness of the wine balances out the spice of the food. The finest examples may be aged for up to 10 years, but generally these wines are best enjoyed young.

My wife Sara and I decided it was better if we moved to the countryside with our family, after the news reports of the attacks got more numerous. We had two young children and we wanted to keep them both safe.
We stockpiled food and water as we didn't know how long we would be trapped here until it was safe to leave. We told our sons that it was all a big game as we didn't want to frighten them. We found some old boardgames which we began to play as it was a good way of distracting everyone from what was happening outside.
We had been in our new home less than a month when we were woken by screams from one of the nearby houses. We quickly hid the children and tried to barricade all of the entrances. I looked out one of the upstairs windows and could see that the building across the street was on fire, and there appeared to be someone trapped on the top floor.
Sara screamed as the hammering on the outside of the building commenced. The noise was ear splitting and it sounded like there were thousands of them outside. I stared around in shock as the building seemed to be moving. I ran back downstairs to comfort Sara as I knew what was coming.
I jumped backwards as the living room smashed in by what looked like a tree stump. The creatures began piling in through the window and it didn't seem to phase them as the glass slashed into their flesh.
I was quickly overwhelmed and pinned to the ground as they had superior numbers. Sara seemed to be fighting them off for a few moments but one of them jumped onto her back which momentarily distracted her, and she was then dragged downwards.
The creatures stopped making any noise and gazed towards the door as she walked in. She stood tall and regal and her eyes were hypnotic. I tried to move as my sons were dragged in front of her. She gave them a reassuring smile before removing the pliers from her pockets. Neither of my sons resisted as she pulled out the last of their baby teeth. My sons eyes went vacant and they stood up and joined the rest of the feral children that worshipped her. I watched the Tooth Fairy swallow their teeth as she left with her ever increasing army

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Memory Transcription Subject: Supervisor Tern, Constellation Capital Ship*
Date [Standardized Human Time]: 20 October, 2136
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Aliens can't see below the surface.
That fact is as true now as it was when the aliens first invaded us. That fact has also been the saving grace for Ranghals for 150 years. Act like a herbivore, act like you're in a "herd", act "cured", and hide underground when you think you can't act as convincingly, and the aliens will be unable to see your true self. Because aliens can't see anything beyond what's on the surface.
Captain Korman's briefing is a testament to that.
He, along with the captains of all the other ships, have decided to leave the expedition before establishing a settlement, citing dangerously ineffective ship maintenance and predator diseased behaviour from settlers and crew. And not just the captains, most of the staff on their bridges and even some of the doctors and mechanics no longer want to be in this fleet anymore. All in all, 65 aliens, roughly one-third of the crew, will be departing shortly after this briefing, in the two ships this capital ship has been housing. Just like how you'd expect a prey species to react, running at the slightest hint of danger.
Our plan to secure the fleet from the Nevok worked perfectly, more than perfectly, in fact, since there was always the possibility of the command being shifted to the exterminators instead of us. The sabotage that was meant to take away the exterminators' primary weapon also seemed to break any trust the soon-to-be former command had on them. So the captains didn't want to transfer power to any of them, especially after the tantrum some of the exterminators threw when their flamethrowers were taken for inspection, instead they relied on the supervisors, most of whom were Ranghals, fortunately.
And here was where one of the more infuriating prejudices of the aliens reared its ugly head. It's no secret they consider Ranghals primitive by their standards, the constant berating by the captains and the alien crew members remind us of that every single day. But it seems they saw us like some moss-licking cave dwellers who have never even seen a spaceship much less be inside one. Talking to us like we were academy freshmans who never touched a simulation in their lives, trying to teach us basics like engine control, sensor data readings, proper landing procedures, and how to avoid collision with other ships. It was like they hear the word "primitive" and all that pops up in their minds are barely sapient animals who just discovered tools for the first time in their history.
The look of surprise on their faces when we showed them that the ones to replace them were already experienced in piloting ships and managing crews from our days in commanding orbital defense and patrol ships was as amusing as it was frustrating. I guess Captain Korman and the others conveniently glanced over that part when they read our files when they sent me and a few others in this room for a "predator disease" screening. Hearing that, the inexperienced alien mechanics and officers the captains did select to be their replacements backed out, clearing the way for us Ranghals to take their place. The captains seemed uneasy about that development, but didn't refute it. I had to commend them at least for that, for trusting us "primitives" over the exterminators. Otherwise, taking over the bridges, and subsequently, the fleet, would've been a more difficult and bloodier endeavor.
The second infuriating aspect of the aliens showed when Captain Korman discussed how to start our settlement should this planet be deemed suitable for it. His last act as captain was to send atmospheric and surface probes to survey the planet, to get more detailed readings of the planet's atmosphere and geology to see if it was really inhabitable, and also to look out for signs of sapient life. And this was where the discussion got interesting, as before we were just nodding along to the captain's words, since commanding ships was a familiar topic.
Apparently, if this planet did contain sapient life, we were supposed to not make first contact. Instead, we were to inform one of the founding species of this planet's location and leave in search of another planet. When I asked why we weren't allowed to make first contact, the captain said it was standard for Kolshians or Farsuls to take on first contact projects.
"It is most likely that whatever new species we find will be a herbivore species", Korman elaborated, "Usually they're peaceful, as we all are, but they could be especially prone to violence if they're too primitive, like the Yotul".
He said "Yotul", but he eyed all the Ranghals in this room as he said it, clearly trying to implicate us too, but without being too blatant about it.
"In that case, if something goes wrong with first contact, it could sour the potential relationship between that species and the Federation"
"And what if the new species is a predator?", Supervisor Heda asked the obvious question that was in all our minds.
The aliens in the room gasped and clutched their fur in shock. Their eyes went wide and their mouths hung agape, acting like we committed some grave blasphemy. While we Ranghals just looked at them with confusion. It was a simple question, but judging the aliens' reactions, it seems even bringing up the topic of sapient predators sends them into a mild panic.
"W-well th-there's nothing to worry about", Korman reassured himself and the others, "Predators don't possess the ability to cooperate as well as we do, unless it is for killing and hunting. So it is near impossible that we'll find an entire civilization of predators, if they even reached sapience, that is. Maybe just a few tiny primitive colonies here and there", the aliens all flicked their ears in acknowledgement.
Korman continued, "Of course, there are fringe cases, like the Arxur and Human, but they're just that, fringe. Whatever new species we do find, it'll most certainly be a herbivore species, like the rest of the galaxy"
Lies. The alien was lying. More than 300 species in this galaxy, and including us, they're only 3 species of sapient predators? It didn't feel right. If what the aliens tried to do to us Ranghals is any indication, what happened to other omnivores like us is abundantly clear. And so is the reason for not initiating first contact. Either "cured" or wiped out, the founders of the Federation have been modifying entire species to be herbivores for thousands of years, and changing their history to be hateful towards all meat-eaters. We are the only ones that apparently managed to prevent this, at great costs. The Southern Strip Massacre, the loss of our cattle, the vilification of our deity, and now the collapse of so many of our forests. The aliens are a scourge on the existence of life and nature. It's abundantly clear just hiding from the aliens isn't enough anymore. It's time we took Rangha back from the invaders, however risky it may be. This is the first step towards it.
The meeting concluded, the captains transferred leadership to their replacements, and headed to the return ships as they were being prepared for the 9 day journey back to our home planet. As for me and my crew, we headed to the bridge to assume our new positions, as did the rest of the replacement crew in their own respective ships. The fleet was now ours, however, there was still a dangerous element in it that still remained. The alien exterminators will need to be dealt with for us to be in complete control.
As we entered the bridge, we were greeted by the only alien officer who decided to stay behind instead of leaving like the rest of his crew. Rimik, a Nevok, sensors officer, and apparently the only one of the previous crew with a big enough mental constitution.
Even then, by his mannerisms and fidgeting, it was clear he was a bit intimidated by us. The crew suddenly changing from of his own people to one of a different, unknown species must be a little unsettling. But then again, it could be his instincts telling him something is wrong. He is a prey species, after all, and we are predators, we are about to ambush them. Rimik may not have succumbed to his instincts like the rest of the aliens, but they still affected him.
One of the more troubling and confusing aspect of the alien's psychology was the fact that they never seemed to have evolved past their base instincts. Uncontrollable stampedes, running or fainting at the slightest hint of fear, a voracious appetite for expansion, often to the detriment of their own ecosystems, and the mindless tendency to kill anything even remotely threatening to them. All these are your typical herding prey species behaviour. But these are what you'd expect from mindless animals, not from a sapient, intelligent, spacefaring species. Their instincts don't explain the callous disregard for the natural order they have, nor their refusal to learn anything about predators that doesn't reinforce their prejudices. Sometimes I wonder whether the aliens were really like this, or some elaborate act to take our planet for themselves. I made a note to myself to make learning about the aliens' nature a secondary goal of this mission.
"So, Rimik, how's the planetary survey coming along?", I asked the alien, who was sitting in his chair already pouring over the data the probes were sending back.
"It'll be another hour until the survey is complete, er… captain Tern", the sensors officer answered, "But from the data we have by now, this is looking promising", his voice got slightly more cheery as he continued, "Breathable air, farmable, non-toxic land and water, stable geology, this could be it, the planet we're looking for"
"That's good to hear", I said while silently signaling the others to start the operation. 3 officers got up and left the bridge to inform the others.
"It's a shame Captain Korman and the others decided to leave now. We're so close, I wish they stayed until the end of the expedition", Rimik spoke somberly.
"It's a shame indeed", I pretended to agree with the alien. My screen showed cam footage of the two ships where the aliens who would be leaving were. They were lounging around near the hangar and inside the ships, waiting for the final food crates to be loaded for departure, completely unaware of what was about to unfold.
"What made you stay then, Rimik? Why not go with the others?", I asked him.
"Oh… um… I just wanted to find new planets, I guess", Rimik staggered as he was not expecting this question, "Also… er… gaining favor with the Imperium, better financial opportunities, maybe even a title..."
Rimik rambled on about the Imperium and the potential good that can come out of being in their good graces. But I didn't pay attention to any of that because my mind was focused on what was happening on my screen. Several bright flashes of light curtained the footage of the hangars and ships for a split second as several LS bombs went off in the aliens' vicinity. The disoriented aliens there didn't have time to react to the white smoke that quickly filled the room, and the aliens collapsed where they stood one by one.
Alarms started blaring on all sections of the ship. The white sleeping gas seeped out from the vents and spread throughout the ship.
Toxic gas alert! Toxic gas alert! All personnel, equip your gas masks and stay clear of affected areas
The automated voice kept repeating itself. Not that it'd do much to help, since most areas of the ship were affected and I doubt a lot of the aliens will get to their gas masks before the sleeping gas gets them. Security cams showed aliens and Ranghals alike scrambling to get to their living quarters or the nearest utility room to get their gas masks. A lot of them did not manage to do so before they fell unconscious. The hangars and social rooms were the most affected, while the crew in the generator and engine rooms were mostly intact since they already had gas masks nearby.
"Wh-what the…? What's h-happening? Why now?", Rimik got up from his chair to get his gas mask, only to freeze in place as he saw his crewmates, including me, pointing their firearms at him.
"Wh- wh- wha… er… C-captain? Wh-what i-is…", all blood drained from Rimik's face and fur stood up on end in fear, he ducked his tail between his legs, which were now shaking uncontrollably.
I ordered two of the officers on the bridge to tie up the alien. They lowered their guns, donned their gas masks and left the bridge to find something to tie up Rimik with.
"Th-this is a j-joke, r-right?", the alien was sobbing, "W-why are you d-doing this?"
"You're getting your wish, Rimik. No-one is leaving this expedition", I said with a threatening glare, "Don't move. We don't want to hurt you unless we have to"
I guess we should stop calling this an expedition now. It was an insurrection, our first real fight against the aliens since the Southern Strip Massacre. The last thing we want is the larger Federation knowing about this, especially when we still can't take them on in a head-on-head fight.
I addressed the communications officers, "Open channels to all ships. Tell them we're moving to Stage 2"
The two officers came back with wires and began tying up Rimik, who looked like he was ready to scream his lungs out, but the officers shut his muzzle so all that came out of Rimik was loud muffles.
With the only alien in the room subdued, we relaxed a little.
"I'll lock the bridge now. Don't open the doors for anybody until Fria and her team arrives", I closed my eyes as I sat on my chair.
This was it. Our first step away from living under the aliens' claws.

Hello, I would like to seek fellow redditors opinions, input and recommendation on how I could better finetune my itinerary better. There's only so much I can think of, and plan as an individual, but with everyone's input and comments I can further refine and enhance the travel experience before I set foot into Japan. Do forgive me in advance for the theorycrafting wall of text.
I know it may be difficult to review the itinerary, so to make the review easier I have broken the itinerary down into specific sub-groups e.g. Shikoku, Kinki etc. Specific questions that I have are bolded.
Thank you in advance for taking your time to provide your opinions!
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Baseline information

• 32M, average fitness, solo traveller
• Public transport only (challenge); I have a driver's license but I have not drove a car for god knows how long so I would prefer not to test it against the green hills of Shikoku
• Interest: anime (select few), experience autumn/nature, visiting secluded spots, and just trying random stuff
• JP language skill: rudimentary at best (N4), but I will not shy away from speaking in simple, broken japanese or use a translator to communicate. Reading/interpreting kanji is not a problem (in general).
• Visit history: Visited twice (once to Hokkaido for ~8 days, and once toKyoto and Osaka for 8 days
• Will probably travel around with a (slightly) oversized luggage at ~166cm (A+B+C), that’s the only one I have with me. This will be a problem on the Shinkansen (but hopefully not so much on sightseeing trains/limited expresses).
• Will be visiting during (almost) peak autumn at 11 November, and will depart on the 16th of December
• Jet lag is unlikely to be a problem (1h time difference), but nevertheless I will maintain a low tempo on the first day to acclimatize to the environment
• Only thing firmed as of now is the air ticket, everything else is up in the air.
• I like planning/min-maxing to some degree, though I recognize that I may not fulfill all objectives during the trip and I am totally ok with that [its just a guideline or framework to give the holiday some structure, that’s all.] FWIW, I personally like traveling at a high tempo pace like some japanese travel show do (e.g. ローカル路線バス乗り継ぎの旅)

​
Specific goals/objective:

1. Experience Shikoku in autumn (specifically the views at Iya Valley) and in other prefectures (thus making nature sightseeing more of a priority this time round)
2. Experience Kanazawa for anime stuff
3. Experience the Shimanami Kaido in full (including any sightseeing spots in between the 6 island chains)
4. Bonus - try as many sightseeing trains as possible.
5. Bonus - if weather, time and schedule permits, try skiing as an option in Nagano.
6. Bonus - stay in as many onsen ryokans as possible, without breaking the bank.

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Locked-in prefectures [i.e. I will definitely go to those prefectures no matter what]:

1. Shikoku (as per above objective)
2. Hiroshima (because its on the opposite end of the Shimanami Kaido)
3. Kanazawa (for anime related reason)
4. Tokyo (that is my starting and end point so it has to be included by default)

All other prefectures are basically float i.e. I am open to consider dropping said itinerary for something else based on your suggestion that aligns with my preferences/interest. Most of the other locations I added are prefectures that are often next to each other, or well-connected (apart from the initial Tokyo Kagawa jump via Sunrise Seto/Shinkansen).
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Wait-list prefectures (prefectures that I want to go, but I don’t think I can realistically fit in without dropping other locations):

1. Snow skiing at Nagano (depending on how cooperative the weather is in early-ish December (would 2 days be sufficient?))
2. Ehime, Kochi expansion [spend 1-3 more days]
3. Izu Peninsula (~2 days, via Saphir Odoriko)
4. Nagoya + lower Nagano (Kiso Valley) (~3 days)
5. Ishikawa expansion [1 extra day at Kaga]

I am open to dropping a few days in Tokyo/Osaka etc to make that trade off [currently kept 3 days free for further development]. Alternatively, if the planning can be better optimized based on your inputs I might be able to do one of those without compromising on the base set. I would like to hear your opinion on what locations you would drop in the itinerary to make time for one of the above.
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General planning philosophy:

1. My itineary adopts a breadth approach (cover as much area as I can humanely possible without rushing/touch-and-go) as opposed to depth (i.e. spending much more time within Shikoku than what I allocated); though I would be open to considering more days at selected locations if you have strong recommendations. My thought is to experience how different autumn is at various parts of the country (if possible), and maybe winter too (to a certain degree).
2. Due to the nature of my travel, I note that luggage logistics is a critical consideration when moving between prefectures; my thought is to park that luggage at the next hotel as quickly as possible so that I can free myself for sightseeing within the vicinity, or leave the luggage at the hotel after I check out until I am ready to travel to the next location. I will need to send (quite a fair bit of) emails to the hotels to confirm on this prior to booking.
3. I will attempt to minimize transit time between prefectures to no more than 2~3 hours a day to avoid having excessively long transport days (except the initial Tokyo Kagawa jump).
4. Because of the long trip, I will also need to factor a bit of downtime at night for administrative stuff (e.g. catching up a little bit on work, laundry etc).

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Shikoku (~7 days)
Specific thoughts while planning:

1. I will need to exploit Limited Express trains as much as possible to minimize downtime between the 4 prefectures. Fortunately, for the most part these train frequencies are almost hourly, thus missing one train isnt too deadly consequence-wise.
2. The transfer between Kochi and Ehime [Matsuyama] is oddly quicker via express bus as opposed to trains (!)
3. For Kochi, my opinion is that it is best explored on car instead of public transport [it’s a really wide prefecture]; I feel that 1 day may not do it justice, but it is probably adequate for exploring the city centre as a whole.
4. There's a fair bit of uncertainties while planning this leg so I would deeply appreciate any advice you may have.
5. This current iteration is unable to weave in the Shikoku Mannaka Sennen Monogatari sightseeing train [四国まんなか千年ものがたり] ; if you people think its something not to be missed do let me know and I will reshuffle my timetable as such.

Day 0: Tokyo Kagawa (Sunrise Seto) [Saturday, 11 Nov]

• Touch down at Narita at 1720hours
• Transfer to Tokyo Station via NEX or Skyliner
• Settle administrative matters at the Midori-no-Maruguchi (e.g. get all the booked tickets etc from JR Pass, for Shinkansen and all other sightseeing trains) at Tokyo Station.
• IF Sunrise Seto ticket is obtained via the JR West portal booking, chill till 2200 and take Sunrise Seto to reach Kagawa (Takamatsu) at 0700 the next day. Try to snag the ticket online (likely via the japanese portal since there's no option to buy Solo Deluxe through the english/international website. Otherwise, compromise and go for Single)
• IF Sunrise Seto ticket is NOT obtained, proceed to take the furthest possible Shinkansen westwards (probably Okayama) and rest for the night.

Day 1: Kagawa (Takamatsu) [Sunday, 12 Nov]

• Chill around Takamatsu. Drop luggage at coin locker OR the hotel (near JR Takamatsu ideally)
• Look at whats left of Takamatsu Castle en route to the port.
• Day trip to Naoshima or Teshima to visit the art museums (Chichu Art Museum, Lee Ufan Museum etc).
• Ritsuin Garden in the evening (closes 1830)
• Find an eatery with Sanuki Udon for dinner if possible.

Day 2: Kagawa (Kotohira) Tokushima (Iya Valley) [Monday, 13 Nov]

• Morning trip from Takamatsu to Kotohira (either via JR or Kotoden). Visit Kotohiragu [includes inner shrine] and Kanamaruza Theater
• Return to Kotohira to pick up luggage, transit to Oboke via Limited Express Shimanto [Takamatsu Tadotsu Oboke]
• Retire at a local hotel around Oboke. If time permits, take the chance to explore around Oboke Gorge itself.

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Day 3: Tokushima (Iya Valley) [Tuesday, 14 Nov]
[Post-research note: I realized that there is NO public transport to Mount Tsurugi on a weekday. I will have to rent a taxi direct to Mount Tsurugi, make the 'climb', then thereafter take the taxi down to the other attractions. I am inclined to just go full hog on the private taxi and rent it (almost the whole day, probably 7~8 hours for 4300yen/hour) to save the trouble.
Otherwise, I will need to hike downhill which can be rather rough since its just a single lane road (looking at nearly 10++ km) so I think it wise not to penny pinch in the interest of both time and safety.]
Spend the day at Iya Valley.

• Take a taxi after breakfast to zip to Mount Tsurugi and speedrun it to the mountain peak (aka using the chairlift to speedrun a good chunk of the mountain) about 2.5 hours ~ 3 hours as per the Iya Valley guide
• Taxi from Mount Tsurugi chairlift down to Oku-Iya Niju Kazuraashi and cross it (~1 hour estimate)
• Taxi down to visit the mannequins/scarecrows at Nagoro Village (~3km downhill from Oku-Iya). (~1 hour estimate)
• Check out the Peeing Boy Statue (~0.5 hour estimate [its just looking at the statue that is overlooking the entire gorge is it not?])
• Cross the outer vine bridge Iya-no-Kazurabashi (~1 hour estimate)
• Taxi back to Oboke, and retire for the day (~0.5 hour estimate, thus looking at about ~8 hours taxi rental total, with some leeway for lunch break)

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Day 4: Tokushima (Iya Valley) Kochi (Kochi) [Wednesday, 15 Nov]

• Transit from Iya Valley [Oboke] to Kochi via Limited Express Shimanto (again) after breakfast. (~1 hour transit)
• Park luggage at hotel [ideally near JR Kochi Station], then proceed to mill around Kochi, visiting places such as Kochi Castle [高知城] and Harimaya Bridge[はりまや橋]
• Transit to Sakamoto Ryoma Memorial Museum [高知県立坂本龍馬記念館] via local bus which is also near Katsumatsura Beach incidentally. Chill at Katsumatsura Beach in the evening
• Return to JR Kochi, dinnesupper at Hirome Market (ideally to try out Kochi's speciality seared bonito). [is visiting the market more preferable during lunch OR dinner?]

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Day 5: Kochi (Kochi) Ehime (Imabari) [Thursday, 16 Nov]

• Complete any remaining items in Kochi in the morning, then transit to Imabari via train (Kochi Tadotsu Imabari), via Limited Express Shimanto (yet again!) and Ishidzuchi**[TBC: this might be better done via highway bus instead which is faster at ~2-3 hours]**
• Drop luggage at Imabari for the next 2 days, either at Sunrise Itoyama OR Cycle no Ie. [both are well positioned for the Shimanami Kaido, and are also one of the selected hotels eligible for the Sagawa luggage transfer.] Ideally done just around lunch time, so that there's still the better half of the day to explore Imabari.
• Spend the remainder of the day visiting Imabari Castle (closes 1700) and Towel Museum (slightly out of the way) (closes 1800) [TBC: I note this place is quite out of the way from Imabari itself, even the JP website suggests taking a taxi (!) there from the nearby train station. Might have to drop this).
• Attempt to try some Ehime-related food specialties e.g. Taimeshi (Sea Bream), Ehime oranges, Champon for the next 2 days

​
Day 6: Ehime (Matsuyama / Imabari) [Friday, 17 Nov]

• Take the Limited express train Ishidzuchi to Matsuyama day tripping. (~1h one-way).
• Explore Matsuyama Castle, and the nearby Matsuyama Ropeway Shopping Street
• Visit Shiki Memorial Museum
• Visit Dogo Onsen [and attempt to soak in the waters if possible].
• Also consider looking at Ishiteji (石手寺) beside Dogo Onsen.
• Bonus: Subject to train schedule, if possible, attempt to secure tickets for the Iyonada Sightseeing Train (伊予灘物語), Futami leg [双海ふたみ 編] , and also visit JR Shimonada Station (JR下灘駅) at the same time.
• Bonus: visit Yawatahama Port where the movie Suzume took reference from,
• Return to Imabari via the same Limited express Ishidzuchi and retire for the night.

Day 7: Ehime (Imabari) Hiroshima (Shinamani Kaido) [Saturday, 18 Nov]
I am of the opinion that 1 day in Shimanami Kaido is adequate if I attempt just the main route which is about 80km [as a test run, I did 70km and finished it within 6-7 hours with lunch breaks included]. For now I will plan for two full days, however should I truncate it down to one day later, I will add an extra day to either explore Matsuyama or Okayama.
​

• Start off at Sunrise Itoyama [watch the sunrise, have breakfast here, cafeteria opens at 0700, rental opens at 0800] OR Cycle no Ie. Do paperwork to send luggage over to the next accomodation via Sagawa.
• I will (probably) follow the recommended 'extended' route on Cycle no Ie's website and do the following:
  • Take the west coast for Oshima (~13km) and cross to Hakatajima, with possible stop on:
    • Mount Kiro Observatory Point [I am aware that there's a steep incline so this would be contingent on my physical/mental status by then].
    • Nagahama Beach
• Take the coastal route for Hakatajima (~17km) and cross to Omishima and enjoy the coastal scenery
• Take the coastal route (again) for Omishima (~41km) (or lesser depending on how I'm feeling at that point) , with possible stop on:
  • -TBC: Okunoshima (there is apparently a ferry route to the well-known rabbit island via Omishima port. Not sure if anyone else have tried this particular route and if this is a better approach than going through Tadano-umi (though I would acknowledge that there's historical stuff to visit in nearby Takehara), and I would not be able to buy rabbit food in advance).[Based on Google Earth estimate, its about 3km for the entire island loop - seems doable within 2 hours to tour the poison gas museum with a bike and pet some rabbits).
  • Oyamazumi Shrine Treasure Museum
• End the day at WAKKA (Omishima) OR Guesthouse NEST / Soil Setoda (Ikuchijima) just beside Kousanji / The Hill of Hope (closes 1700). If possible, visit before closing, otherwise defer to next day.
• Try the ice cream at Dolce at Ikuchijima if possible.
• Bonus: if for some reason I am still ahead of time at this juncture (<1500), proceed to finish Innoshima and Mukaishima, then take a ferry to backtrack to Wakka/Soil Setoda or cycle back (last boat is ~1700) and rest; however, the next day I will zip straight to Onomichi via ferry after breakfast.

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Hiroshima + Yamaguchi (~4 days)
Specific thoughts while planning:

1. Onomichi is a pretty good base to jump to Okayama to explore Okayama, Kurashiki or Tomonoura with the Shinkansen accessibility, but it is impossible to cover them all within a single day. If I finish the Shimanami Kaido within a single day or finish it early on the second day, I will have that extra time to visit those.
2. There's another sightseeing train etSETOra from Onomichi to Hiroshima but it only operates on Monday/Friday/Saturday/Sunday. For now the schedule could fit the train timetable pretty nicely.
3. Would anyone suggest visiting Miyajima in the morning or in the evening? This would help me determine the order for the Kintaikyo Bridge/Miyajima day trip. Watching the sunset at either destination is pretty good in my books.

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Day 8: Hiroshima (Shinamani Kaido Onomichi) [Sunday, 19 Nov]

• Continue from Ikuchijima towards Innoshima and Mukaishima (~18km) via the western coast route after breakfast, with possible stops on the following areas:
  • Innoshima: Innoshima Flower Centre, Shimanami Beach [open to more suggestions]
  • Mukaishima : there seems to be a lot of brunch places like Willows Nursery etc, soak the view at Mukaishima Rest Park [TBC: open to more suggestions]

Ideally reach Onomichi just around lunch or earlier. Chill for the rest of the day, and if I'm still up for it, explore Onomichi, including but not limited to:

• Exploring the cat alley
• Visit the exhibits at Onomichi City Museum of Art
• Consider walking to Senkoji and Onomichi Hondori Shopping Street
• Look into trying Onomichi-style ramen.

Retire at a guesthouse/hotel near JR Onomichi that I have forwarded the luggage to.
​
Day 9: Hiroshima (Onomichi, Takehara+Kure OR Tomonoura OR Okayama) Downtown Hiroshima) [Monday, 20 Nov]

• Mill around Onomichi in the morning (if not done yesterday), with a side trip to EITHER Takehara/Kure OR Okayama/Kurashiki OR Tomonoura (choose one):
  • Takehara: stroll along the historical townscape [and look if they have any Tamayura-related merch], Okunoshima (if not done during the Shimanami Kaido leg / Kure: look into trying Kure curry/Niku-jaga and visit the Yamato Museum
  • Okayama: Okayama Castle (zip via Shinkansen) / Kurashiki : Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter
  • Tomonoura: stroll along the townscape during the day (zip via Shinkansen, transfer to local bus)
• Return to Onomichi (no later than 1400), board the etSETOra sightseeing train at 1437, and zip to Hiroshima. Enjoy the sunset along the coastline.
• Retire for the night at Hiroshima proper, probably near JR Hiroshima OR the bus terminal. If time permits, take a gander along the streets and see what takes me from there.

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Day 10: Hiroshima (Downtown Hiroshima) [Tuesday, 21 Nov]
Spend the day surveying Hiroshima proper.

• Peace Memorial Park (平和記念公園) and Atomic Bomb Dome
• Hiroshima National Peace Memorial Hall for the Atomic Bomb Victims (国立広島原爆死没者追悼平和祈念館)
• Hiroshima Castle
• Orizuru Tower (おりづるタワー)
• Shukkeien (縮景園)
• Optional: Mazda Museum / Kure (if not done the previous day)
• Try to source for Hiroshima-specific food: Okonomiyaki, Dandan Noodles

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Day 11: Hiroshima (with a day trip to Yamaguchi) [Wednesday, 22 Nov]

• Daytrip to Yamaguchi [Shin-Iwakuni] to visit Kintaikyo Bridge via Shinkansen. Also stop by the nearby Iwakuni Castle.
• Try Tonosama Sushi at Iwakuni if possible.
• Take the local train back to Miyajimaguchi and take the boat to Itsukushima.Take the time to stroll around the island and perhaps watch the sunset at the torii gate.
• Exit back to Hiroshima via boat to Hiroshima Port direct, and transit back to hotel.

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Shimane + Tottori (4 days)
Specific thoughts while planning:

1. Matsue becomes the main jump point for Shimane just because of the subsidized highway bus from Hiroshima, and ease of access towards Tottori later. There's no direct train between Hiroshima and Izumo/Matsue (!).
2. Tottori is really wide size-wise, to the point that it feels more efficient to have two separate hotels in two nights (Kurayoshi/Misasa Onsen + downtown Tottori) rather than one hotel for two nights (i.e. downtown Tottori). Could be just me making excuses to get into an onsen ryokan however.
3. Is there anything interesting at Yonago (Tottori) that I should take note of? Based on my initial survey nothing in particular pops up (other than the Tottori Prefectural Flower Park).
4. Skipping Tottori Castle since it doesn’t seem to be interesting at first glance. Any other interesting things to at Tottori downtown (or nearby)?

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Day 12: Hiroshima Shimane (Matsue) [Thursday, 23 Nov]

• Make good use of the 500yen highway bus from Hiroshima to Matsue. (3.5 hours transit). Fortunately the frequency is not too bad (7-8 buses per day, looking at 0800 departure or later); if there are still outstanding places to visit in Hiroshima I will visit them in the morning.
• Check in at a hotel near JR Matsue, and proceed to trawl around Matsue with whatever daylight is left. (TBC: am considering taking a few stops down to Tamatsukuri Onsen 玉造温泉 or Matsue-shinjoko Onsen instead of the typical hotel. Does anyone have any positive experiences there?)
• Attempt to spend the afternoon at the Adachi Museum of Art. Local train to Yasugi, transfer to free shuttle.
• Chill off in downtown Matsue for the night. Prowl for Shimane-specific food such as Naniwa Zushi (浪花寿司), Shijimi clams (しじみ), Izumo soba, Izumo Zenzai (出雲ぜんざい).
• Bonus: visit the Tottori Prefectural Flower Park for the winter Hanakairo Flower Illumination at Yonago at night [which is just beside Matsue. Free shuttle bus at Yonago bus terminal].

​
Day 13: Shimane (Izumo / Matsue) [Friday, 24 Nov]

• Day trip from Matsue to Izumo. (JR Matsue JR Izumo, swap to Ichibata local rail to Izumotaisha-mae)
• Take a stop at Izumo Taisha, as well as the nearby Shimane Museum of Ancient Izumo (島根県立古代出雲歴史博物館)
• After lunch, return to JR Matsue and proceed to Yushien Garden (由志園) via bus. Enjoy the sunset over the garden.
• Stop by Matsue Castle on the way back.

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Day 14: Shimane (Matsue) Tottori (Kurayoshi) [Saturday, 25 Nov]

• Transfer from Matsue to Kurayoshi in the morning via Super Matsukaze Limited Express (~1h).
• Settle down luggage at Misasa Onsen, then proceed to hike up Mitokusan Sanbutsuji Temple (三仏寺). Cater extra time just in case I have to wait for another fellow to pop up to climb in pairs. Estimated climb time excluding wait is about 2-3 hours both ways?
• Excess time to be spent sauntering Misasa Onsen and its nearby area such as the Nijisseiki Pear Museum [二十世紀梨記念館（なしっこ館)] and Kurayoshi Historical Quarter.
• Retire at Misasa Onsen for the night. Bonus: watch the constellations at night at Misasa Onsen on a Monday/Wednesday/Friday, 2100JST. Current plan does not fall within those 3 weekdays
• Bonus: take a short detour to Conan Town (postnote: not a big fan of the show).

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Day 15: Tottori (Kurayoshi Tottori) [Sunday, 26 Nov]

• Transfer from Kurayoshi to Tottori (~35minutes transfer) in the morning, and proceed to tour around Tottori.
• Drop luggage, take a local bus to Tottori Sand Dunes, and visit the nearby Sand Museum.
• Transfer northwards to Uradome Coast via local bus and spend the remainder of the day there. Watch the sunset over the coast.
• Return to downtown Tottori, stroll around and call it a night.

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Hyogo, Kyoto, Osaka , Nara, Mie (10 days)
Specific thoughts while planning:

1. Kinosaki Onsen is intentionally designed to be a slow-paced leg to recover [and also to make time to enjoy the onsens].
2. The limited express train between Kinosaki Onsen and Osaka stops by Himeji thus I thought of resting a night there instead of doing day trips via Osaka.
3. Osaka itinerary does look sparse but that is in large part because I have already visited most of them in the past. Nevertheless, I would like to experience how different it is in autumn compared to summer [based on those few destinations that I loved going previously].
4. I have kept one float day to decompress, OR shift to any of the other prefectures (TBC).
5. There are (multiple) special limited express train by Kintetsu; they're not covered by JR pass but nevertheless I would love to ride on those as an experience. The Kintetsu pass covers the basic fare only but based on my preliminary cost estimate, it is still worth getting it.
6. Is it feasible to compress Himeji and Kobe to a single day?
7. The itineraries for Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Mie are flexible since they're literally beside one another - makes it particularly easy to shift around base on ground situation.

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Day 16: Tottori (Tottori) Hyogo (Kinosaki Onsen) [Monday, 27 Nov]

• Settle any outstanding sightseeing spots in the morning if required in Tottori, then transfer to Kinosaki Onsen via the Sanin Line.
• Make a pitstop at Amarube ('Sky Station') and marvel at the engineering work.
• Deposit luggage at the ryokan (or put in the coin locker), and stroll around and enjoy Kinosaki Onsen [after all its an onsen town].
• Try to hit as many of the 7 external onsens that are usable. Retire for the night here.
• Optional: go up the ropeway and oversee Kinosaki Onsen in the evening (last ride up ~1630)
• Optional: take a short hike up to Onsenji Temple.

​
Day 17: Hyogo (Kinosaki Onsen + Northern Kyoto (Amanohashidate) day trip) [Tuesday, 28 Nov]

• Optional: take a (very) early start to the day to Takeda Castle Ruins and witness the 'floating castle' effect in the morning (<0800).
• Day trip to Amanohashidate via ToyookaKyotango Railway. Do the funny bend-down pose on the bench at Amanohashidate View Land, and see how it feels like looking at the world inverted.
• Cross the sandbar and look from the other side (Nariaiji Temple / Kasamatsu Park)
• Select one of three additional side-trips:
  • EITHER take a local bus up to Ine to look at the Funaya + sightseeing boat,
  • OR local rail down to Maizuru to look at the Maizuru World Brick Museum + eat at the Michi-no-eki;
  • OR reverse to Toyooka spend time in the city itself e.g. Izushi Castle Town
• Return to Kinosaki Onsen, and continue experiencing the remainder of the onsens. Retire for the night here. Optional: ride the Aomatsu sightseeing train back to Toyooka.
• Optional: Take a trip to Ankokuji Temple (安国寺) in the evening. Likely to visit post-peak autumn which means less than ideal viewing conditions.

Day 18: Hyogo (Kinosaki Onsen Himeji) [Wednesday, 29 Nov]

• Transit from Kinosaki Onsen to Himeji via Limited Express Hamakaze (~2 hours).
• Deposit luggage at the hotel or the coin lockers at the station, then proceed for sightseeing.
• Walk along the Miyuki Street Shopping District which is en-route to Himeji Castle.
• Himeji Castle sector : Himeji Castle (姫路城), Kokoen (好古園)
• Take a local bus at Himeji Castle to go to Mount Shosha and hike up Engyōji Temple (圓教寺)
• Optional : Stroll along Hyogo Prefectural Museum of History and/or Himeji City Museum of Art which is beside the castle, OR Shosha Handicraft Museum which is just at the foot of Mount Shosha
• Optional: Make a detour to the Japan Toy Museum near Koro station (~30 minutes from JR Himeji). Closes 1700.
• Look for Hyogo-specific food: Kobe beef, steamed pork buns, sobameshi, himeji oden, etc

Retire at Himeji for the night.
Day 19: Hyogo (Himeji Kobe) Osaka (Dotonburi) [Thursday, 30 Nov]
Day trip to Kobe, before continuing further down to Osaka.

• Check out from Himeji, transit further down to Kobe for another stop before Osaka. Place luggage at the holding facility within the Shinkansen station.
• Take a visit to the Earthquake Memorial Museum (人と防災未来センター) to look at the devastation wrought by the 1995 earthquake.
• Stroll along Kobe Harborland (神戸ハーバーランド) and Meriken Park (メリケンパーク) , look at the Kobe Tower since its closed till 2024 for renovation, and look at the damage caused by the earthquake
• Optional: Head westwards to Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art.
• Optional: Hit up the ASICS Sports Museum (アシックススポーツミュージアム)
• Look at the engineering feat that is the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge and the nearby Akashi Kaikyo Bridge Exhibition Center at Maiko. (Suzume no Tojimari)
• Return to Shin-kobe, pick up luggage, and transit to Shin-Osaka via Shinkansen, and then to Dotonburi/Shinsaibashi. End the (long) day in Osaka.

Day 20: Osaka [Friday, 1 Dec]
Osaka Nostalgia (acid) trip, speedrun edition: revisiting places that I want to go again

• Day trip to Mino Park and revisit the waterfall (I loved visiting it previously) via the Hankyu line in the morning.
• Zoom down to the Osaka Aquarium after lunch and walk around it (Minoo Umeda Honmachi Osakako Station).
• From there, race towards Abeno Harukas and watch the sunset/nightview at Abeno Harukas.
• Bonus: revisit Sumiyoshi Taisha if time permits.
• Spend whatever time remains at night at Nipponbashi Denden Town (shops close at ~2000) and Dotonburi (some stores are still open near midnight) and/or Shinsekai (新世界).

Day 21: Osaka (Nara day trip) [Saturday, 2 Dec]
Spend a day in Nara.

• Zoom from Namba to Nara via Kintetsu (note: non-JR)
• Explore Todaiji Temple, Kokufuji Temple, Isuien Garden and Kasuga Taisha.
• Optional: pass by Naramachi (奈良町) on the way back.
• Take the Kintetsu line down to Mount Yoshino. [TBC: subject to whether I am too early or late for the koyo.Based on last year's prediction I am about 1-2 weeks too late. Might swap this out to a Uji day trip instead in Kyoto.). Spend time walking around the Shimo Senbon and Naka Senbon and experience the autumn.
• Transfer back to Osaka. Bonus: take the Blue Symphony back to Osaka instead of the typical train. (non-JR)

Day 22: Osaka (Mie day trip) [Sunday, 3 Dec]
Day trip to Mie.

• Take the Iseshima Liner from Tsuruhashi Station (near Namba/Dotonburi) to Ise. Bonus: take the Hinotori from Osaka to Tsu, then transfer to Mie. (non-JR)
• Hit up Ise Jingu (伊勢神宮) [both inner and outer] and Okage Yokocho (おかげ横丁)
• Try to eat Matsuaka Beef or Ise Udon for lunch.
• Head westwards to Futamiokitama Shrine (二見興玉神社) / Meotoiwa Rocks; and if further time permits, go to Toba for the Ama Viewing Platform.
• Take the returning Shimakaze Limited Express train back to Osaka (note: only one train at 1630; if this train is missed, change to normal express trains). (non-JR)
• Retreat back to Osaka for the night. Consider doing any other night activities in Osaka if time, and body permits.

Day 23: Osaka ('north' Kyoto day trip) [Monday, 4 Dec]
(north) Kyoto day trip.

• Take a stop at the Kyoto Railway Museum. Optional: also consider heading to To-ji Gojunoto first if I reach Kyoto way early before 10am.
• Walk back to Kyoto station, and take a bus northwards to Kyoto Manga Museum.
• Hop on the bus direct from the Manga Museum to Kinkakuji. [bus 15]
• Select one of two side-trips:
  • EITHER head westwards to Arashiyama (note: already visited once in the summer but I still think it nice to visit in autumn/winter this time round). Bonus: experience sunset along the Togetsukyo Bridge.
  • OR head eastwards to Higashiyama (closes 1700), Philosopher's path etc (did not visit these in my past trip here so there's the 'new' factor, but it is going to be a physically taxing day. Also, most likely will reach here nearing evening i.e. closing time thus there's a limit to how much I can visit realistically).

Whichever choice, return back to Osaka for the night. Look out for Kyoto-specific food such as Yudofu, Saba Sushi, Warabi Mochi, Nishin Soba (にしんそば) etc.
Day 24: Osaka ('south' Kyoto day trip) [Tuesday, 5 Dec]
(south) Kyoto day trip edition (mainly Uji and Fushimi).

• Zip from Osaka to Kyoto via Keihan to Uji Station.
• Spend the better half of the morning in Uji.
• Visit the Byōdō-in and the nearby Tonoshima and Tachibana Island.
• Hike up to the Daikichiyama Observation Deck to oversee Uji as a whole. On the way down, explore Ujigami Shrine.
• Take the chance to buy some Uji tea as gifts to relatives. Have lunch along the Omotesando Road.
• Head further northwards to Fushimi, and do another hike up Fushimi Inari. (Note: visited once in the past but I liked the experience thus I would like to do it again.) Bonus: if its done in the evening.

Head back to Osaka and retire for the night. Consider doing any other night activities in Osaka if time, and body permits.
Day 25: Osaka (wildcard) [Wednesday, 6 Dec]
Spare day to do whatever I feel like doing OR reallocate this to another prefecture. Intentionally left blank for later planning
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Kanazawa, Gifu+ (4 days)
Specific thoughts while planning:

1. Is it likely for the skiing season to open around 9~10 December at Shiga Kogen or Nozawa Onsen? Would very much like to try skiing for fun, but am uncertain if the snow condition would be satisfactory by then. Some of the skiing website indicates that these two destinations are usually the first to open. I would like to seek advise on this if possible [never skiied before].
2. As an additional question to point 1, is 2 days adequate just to get a flavor on skiing?
3. Kanazawa is a pretty solid jump point to Shirakawago/Takayama via express buses (~1 to 2 hour one way).
4. My initial planning considered going to Kurobe Gorge (Toyama) but apparently the railways are closed from December onwards. Please correct me if I am mistaken.
5. Another sightseeing train in Kanazawa that I can fit in nicely in my current plans (花嫁のれん), runs on Mon/Fri/Sat/Sun.

Day 26: Osaka Ishikawa (Kanazawa (Kanazawa cityside)) [Thursday, 7 Dec]

• Zip from Osaka to Kanazawa via Limited Express Thunderbird in the early morning (~3hours; ideally the 0740 or 0810 service). Drop luggage at the hotel near JR Kanazawa and explore the cityside.
• Have lunch at the Omicho Market (近江町市場), OR at Higashi Chaya District.
• Stroll around Kanazawa Castle (金沢城, Kanazawajō) and the nearby Kenrokuen (兼六園) / Seisonkaku Villa (成巽閣, Seisonkaku) .
• Consider visiting one or more of the nearby museums if possible:
  • D.T. Suzuki Museum OR
  • National Crafts Museum OR
  • 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art
• Optional: Head southwards to Myoryuji Temple + Nishi Chaya District.
• Optional: Head northwards to Higashi Chaya District (if not done for lunch).

Any outstanding spots not completed today, to be rolled over to the next 2 days (if possible).

• Retire in Kanazawa for the night. Be on the lookout for Kanazawa-specific food: Gold-leaf ice cream, oden, hanton rice
• Optional: have a stay at Yuwaku Onsen for at least one night for anime-related reasons. (Hanasaku Iroha)

​
Day 27: Ishikawa (Kanazawa cityside) / Gifu (Shirakawago, Takayama) [Friday, 8 Dec]

• Day trip to Shiwakawago and Takayama via Nohi bus (non-JR, ~1h). Grab the morning bus express bus to Shirakawago and explore the place in the morning. Experience early snowfall (?) there. Optional: visit Ainokura on the way towards Shirakawago.
• Take another express bus down to Takayama for lunch (~1h travel time).
• Explore what Takayama has to offer. Stroll along the old town near the bus terminal and visit the Takayama Jinya. If time permits, stroll along the Higashiyama Walking Course.
• Optional: pay a visit to Hida Folk Village.
• Return to Kanazawa via Hida Limited Express to Toyama Shinkansen to Kanazawa, OR take the same Nohi express bus directly back (non-JR).
• Retire at Kanazawa for the night. Last express bus from Takayama to Kanazawa is 1630, arrive at 1845. Alternatively, head northwards to Toyama via JR and transfer to Kanazawa.

​
Day 28: Ishikawa (Kanazawa cityside / outskirts) [Saturday, 9 Dec]
Side trip to Wakura Onsen / Nanao for anime-related sightseeing. (Insomanics after Class, Hanasaku Iroha)

• Zoom from Kanazawa up to Wakura Onsen/Nanao via Limited Express Noto Kagaribi. Do some sightseeing related to Insomanics after Class and Hanasaku Iroha.
• Do some train spotting with two anime along the Noto Railways. Stop at Nishigishi station for some sightseeing. (non-JR)
• Return to Kanazawa in the evening from Wakura Onsen via the sightseeing train Hanayomenoren [花嫁のれん, last train 1630).
• End the night at Kanazawa.

Day 29: Ishikawa (wildcard) [Sunday, 10 Dec]
Spare day to do whatever I feel like doing OR reallocate this to another prefecture. Intentionally left blank for later planning
--------------
Tokyo (~6 days)
Specific thoughts while planning:

1. Specific interest to target: anime/vtuber stuff, music (piano in particular), bookstores etc.
2. This is the point in time I should go ham on souvenier purchase if I have not done so. I'll probably get an extra cardboard box or duffel bag to lug with me to the airport to store extra stuff.
3. Would like to seek recommendation on where I should set my base for the 5~6 days here. For now I am planning to pit at Ginza, subject to availability and cost. My thought is that as long as its along the Yamanote line everything rolls I suppose.
4. Hard pass on Golden Gai on the Shunjuku leg (I do not drink).
5. There's way too many to list in terms of what I would like to do in Tokyo, but I have listed items that are of particular interest to me first within the available time frame. If you have strong opinions on specific locations do let me know.

Day 30: Ishikawa (Kanazawa) Tokyo (Ginza) [Monday, 11 Dec]

• Zip from Kanazawa to Tokyo via the Hoririku Shinkansen in the morning (just north of two hours). (TBC : If I can optimize my schedule better, I can try squeezing two days here for a stop at Nozawa Onsen / Shiga Kogen (Nagano) for a short ski experience).
• Deposit luggage at one of the Ginza hotels (TBC: subject to cost; might swap for another location later on)
• Explore ('south') Tokyo with the remainder of the day.
• Marvel at the architecture that is the Tokyo Station and its surrounding.
• Visit the Imperial Palace.
• Head south towards the Mori Art Museum (closes 2200)
• End the night with a stop at Tokyo Tower (closes 2230).

Day 31: Tokyo (Shibuya, Shinjuku and Nakano) [Tuesday, 12 Dec]
Explore ('west') Tokyo, namely Shibuya, Shinjuku and Nakano.

• Start off with an early day visit to Meji Shrine / Yoyogi Park.
• Head up to Shinjuku. Spend the remainder of the morning and lunch exploring Kabukicho, Hanazono Shrine and Omoide Yokochō (ideally have lunch here). Also make a pit stop at Kinokuniya's flagship store at Shinjuku.
• Head northwards to Nakano Broadway and trawl for anime goods for several hours (closes ~1900)
• Head south down back to Shibuya and experience the crossing in peak night condition. Walk around and soak in the atmosphere. Optional: stop by the Ishibashi music store at Shibuya (closes 2000).
• Cap off the night and look at the night view at Shibuya Sky (closes 2230). Zip back to the hotel at Ginza.

Day 32: Tokyo (Akibahara, Asakusa and Sky Tree) [Wednesday, 13 Dec]

• Kick off the day with a morning visit to Asakusa (i.e. Sensoji).
• Transit over to Tokyo Skytree to watch the Tokyo cityscape in the day.
• Trawl around Akibahara for the afternoon. (Animate, Sega claw machines, etc).
• Also stop by Ochanomizu for sightseeing (Suzume no Tojimari)
• Zip back to the hotel for the night. If time permits, stop by the two flagship music stores along Ginza: Yamaha Ginza and Yamano Ginza. Also, visit Itoya Ginza (stationary store).

Day 33: Tokyo (Kamakura day trip OR Ikebukuro) [Thursday, 14 Dec]
EITHER take a day trip Kamakura, OR explore northern Tokyo (Ikebukuro)
Kamakura leg:

• Make a detour to Used Tyre Market Sagamihara Store to experience the retro vending machines. Then head southwards to Enoshima.
• Look at the giant Buddha statue and stroll along Hasedera.
• Take the Enoden to Enoshiima and explore the island.
• Take the JR back to Ginza and retire for the night.

Tokyo (Ikebukuro leg):

• Visit Otome Road for otaku related stuffs.
• Trawl the usual suspects such as Bic Camera etc.
• Make a stop at the Mejiro Gardens.
• Visit the Waseda International House of Literature (The Haruki Murakami Library) at Waseda University.

Day 34: Tokyo (wildcard) [Friday, 15 Dec]
Spare day to do whatever I feel like doing OR reallocate this to another prefecture. Intentionally left blank for later planning
​
Day 35: Tokyo Home [Saturday, 16 Dec]

• Contemplate life at the hotel, doing whatever I feel like for the morning and early afternoon. Bonus: have an early breakfast at Tsukiji Market in the morning if staying at Ginza.
• Clear any last minute administrative matter (if any), or do (very) last minute sightseeing/buying. Most likely limited to Ginza and Akibahara.
• Get a nice lunch omakase to cap it off if possible. (taking recommendations if anyone has one, ideally meat/beef centric instead of just sushi).
• Head off to Narita from Tokyo Station via NEX just after lunch at 1430 1530 to Narita, flight at 1830.

END
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If you're still reading up to this point, here's my own personal ramblings/thoughts on JR pass usage:
I have thought of two ways of doing this for the first 21 days:
a. easy-mode : just get 21 days JR global pass before the price hike at 60450 yen, OR b. hard-mode: get a 7 day JR global pass (to cover the NEX fees, the basic fee on the Sunrise Seto to Shikoku, as well as limited express trains within Shikoku) (29650) + 5 days for JR Okayama Hiroshima Yamaguchi Area Pass (15000) + 4 days for JR Sanin Okayama Area Pass + 5 days for JR Kansai Wide Area Pass (10000) for a total of 59230.
The initial conclusion was to go with option A since that reduces the administrative burden, but I realized the individual passes do have its own perk which truimphs over the global JR pass. For instance, the Sanin Okayama Area Pass provides a (minor) discount for the Adachi Museum of Art; the Kansai Wide Pass covers the Kyotango route between Kinosaki Onsen and Amanohashidate which the global JR pass does not cover, JR Okayama Hiroshima Yamaguchi Area Pass covers JR buses within Hiroshima for free, therefore I am inclined to go with the hell option (option B) as it stands.
For the remaining 14 days, I could also get the global 14 day JR pass at 47250 yen but it is not worth it at all, because I will be relying largely on Kintetsu for the Osaka/Kyoto/Nara/Mie leg which the JR pass most certainly does not cover.

• For the Osaka/Nara/Mie/Kyoto leg, I intend to make good use of a mix of both local metro and the Kintetsu rail pass for 5 days (4900). If I do exploit Kintetsu's limited express train to its fullest, I should be able to save money by buying the pass. The Osaka Amazing Pass at 2600yen a day does not make financial sense for me this time round, given how little I am exploring within Osaka.
• For the Osaka Kanazawa, Shirakawago and Takayama leg, the preferred pass of choice is the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass over the global JR pass, in large part because this pass fully absorbs the Nohi highway bus fees (which can rack up quite a lot at ~8000yen for a return trip between Kanazawa and Shirakawago/Takayama). Also this absorbs the Thunderbird fee. One major issue with my current plan is that it does not cover Wakura Onsen nor the sightseeing train.
• For the final Kanazawa Tokyo leg, the preferred choice is the Horuriku Arch Pass that covers the direct Shinkansen back to Tokyo, and the NEX fees to Narita when I depart from Tokyo. Will only break even with the pass at best unless I make a stop at Nagano.

So all in all, there's quite little incentive to get the global JR pass after I worked out my schedule, apart from the initial 7 days for the Sunrise Seto jump which the All Shikoku Pass will not cover.
Through the hodge-podge of multiple area passes, it works out to around 102890 yen for the whole trip of 35 days, contrast with 107700 yen for a 21 + 14 global JR pass. While there's a minor cost saving doing the hard way which sweetens the deal, the additional minor perks associated with the area passes sells it for me, as I would had to pay more out of pocket to cover non-JR pass buses/rails and such which would add up to much greater cost than I would had anticipated. Also, if I did this trip post-price hike in October, the calculus becomes a no-brainer: avoid the global JR pass like the plague.
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Thank you very much for your opinions, suggestions and advice in advance!

Ahoy there! It's been pretty lonely lately, so I figured I'd put myself out there and try to make some new friends. I'm of SouthEast Asian descent born and raised in Southern California. Definitely more of an indoor person, but I'm making an effort to go outside more and explore new places. Also a bit cringe so don't say I didn't warn ya!
I'm a huge fan of anime, science fiction, fantasy, documentaries, procedural crime shows, and series like Futurama, The Simpsons, Love Death Robots, and The Twilight Zone. I also enjoy playing a bunch of PC games (open world survival, fps, rpgs, fighting games, ect), so hit me up if you want to game together! I'm open to trying anything that looks fun.
Currently trying to improve all areas of my life and trying out new hobbies, listening to new music, watching new things. Mostly trying to get outside my comfort zone and do things I normally wouldn't. Feel free to send a message if you're up for a friendly chat/voicechat but I'm going to ignore all "hey, sup" messages. Not asking for a lot of effort tbh, just tell me a little about yourself. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? What movies, foods, games, or songs are you really into? I look forward to getting to know ya!

Hi, I have job offers in both countries. I’m currently an expat in Singapore but I need to move to a country where it is possible to obtain PR or citizenship in the future. I am married with no kids as of the moment. I have been to both countries as a tourist. Here are the pros and cons that I can think of for each place:
Tokyo: + 12M jpy base salary + bonus + generally safe + food (we like asian foods in general) + wfh setup + good transportation + more holidays - crowded trains - extra payment to rent (Key money?) - small homes - 18 AL
Berlin: + 100k euro base salary + hybrid setup + can easily travel to other EU countries (big plus as we like travelling) + 28 AL - as what I have read online, it’s hard to find an apartment to rent especially as a foreigner - confusing trains and not very clean - takes a long time to approve visa (3 months?)
By the way, me and my partner can’t speak the language of both countries but we’re willing to learn when we get there. Let me know your opinions of either country to help us decide. I think generally both are okay but which one will you choose given the salary and our current situation? We’re both Filipino. Any advice is also welcome.
Thanks

Booked a resort near nemmeli. Booking person said there are no swiggy options nearby and we have to drive and get food. Kindly suggest some food places in the above locations